The New York Times, citing two American officials in the Middle East who spoke on condition of anonymity, reported that Israel and the United States are preparing for renewed attacks on Iran and may restart the war.
In its report, the newspaper said the conflict could begin as early as next week and may be more intense and bloodier than before.
Iranian officials have not yet commented on the matter, but previously warned that they would respond to any attack on Iran.
Analysts say that given these threats, the possibility of the war resuming is high and that the consequences this time could be dangerous.
They predict heavy strikes by the United States and Israel against Iran, but say Iran would retaliate by targeting Israel, U.S. bases in the region, and the oil and water infrastructure of America’s allies.
Political analyst Moeen Gul Tsamkani said:
“The plan by the United States, Israel, and those who designed this war was prepared long ago and is now only being implemented. Trump is merely carrying out a mission contract. I believe this war will be very bloody. The United States and Israel will attack Iran, and Iran will respond by targeting Israel as well as American bases and ships.”
Analysts also say that if conflict resumes between the United States and Iran, Afghanistan and the wider region will not remain unaffected.
According to them, the high likelihood of war between Washington and Tehran would further worsen the region’s security, political, economic, and social conditions, while also increasing prices of goods.
University professor Faiz Mohammad Zalwand said:
“The longer this war continues, the deeper its effects will be not only on Iran but also on countries across the region and the Arab world. You can already see that many sectors in the Arab world—whether energy, oil, or trade—have been disrupted. Likewise, Afghanistan and South Asian countries that used Iran as a trade route are now facing serious difficulties. A regional and international solution to this crisis is urgently needed.”
Experts also argue that war is not the solution and that conflicts have always been resolved through dialogue and mutual understanding. They added that China and Russia should now work to prevent a possible new conflict.
Political analyst Shahzada Massoud said:
“Past experiences have shown that war is not the answer. In my opinion, major regional powers such as China and Russia, along with Arab countries, should make joint efforts to resolve the Iran dispute peacefully. That would benefit everyone. If this war starts again, it will have very negative consequences for the entire region, especially Afghanistan.”
Previously, the U.S. Secretary of Defense told Congress that the Pentagon has special plans in place to prepare for any situation in the Middle East.
The New York Times also reported, citing U.S. officials, that if President Trump decides to attack Iran, this time the operation could include ground offensives in addition to airstrikes, and enriched uranium would be removed from Iran.
